"We the members are the management committee, and with the help of Adrian our Project Worker, we run three drop in sessions a week, where members can come and relax, and find friendship, and most importantly of all, laughter, which is the best medicine there is.

We support each other through good times and bad, because we understand each other's difficulties better than anyone. We organize a variety of activities too, entirely voluntary of course, but it's great to try new things.

I have particularly enjoyed learning to work with willow, as I thought I was definitely not a crafts woman!

To get absorbed in something creative, in good company, beats the blues or anxiety and tension better than anything. And having a go at indoor bowls or table tennis is really good fun, and something I would never do if left to myself.

We live in a very beautiful place, but lack of transport or rural isolation can be a big problem. So our trips to the coast or the woods near Machynlleth means we are out in the open, and enjoying the Dyfi Valley together, which is just so much better than sitting at home alone.

Us Mach have made a real difference to my life, and I know all of us would echo that. I can pop in whatever mood I'm in, and know I'll be accepted for what I am.

We are very proud of the success of our group, and there's a warm welcome and a cup of tea for anyone else who wants to join us.

If you've got any ideas about what you'd like to do, just let us know-we'll try anything once-although I think I'll pass up on sky diving!"

If you are interested in joining our friendly group you can find us at

The Care Centre
Forge Road
Machynlleth
Powys
SY20 8EQ

Our opening hours are:-

Monday 1:30pm to 4:30pm

Wednesday 1:30pm to 4:30pm

Friday 1:30pm to 4:30pm

Article by Pat Atkinson